Lindenwood Player Critical with Spinal Injury

ST. CHARLES, MO (AP) -- A Lindenwood University football player remains hospitalized in critical condition after suffering a spinal injury in a game last weekend.

Freshman cornerback Sterling Thomas was hurt in a 45-30 win over Missouri Southern on Saturday at Lindenwood, which is in the St. Louis suburb of St. Charles. His parents told the university that his excellent physical condition is helping in his recovery. Full details about the extent of the injury have not been disclosed.

Thomas, who is from Tulsa, Oklahoma was taken off the field by ambulance after the injury and remains in a St. Louis-area hospital.

Members of the football team plan to sell bracelets honoring Thomas to help the family with expenses. The university says other fundraising efforts are also planned.